Episode 15: The Role of Race in Addiction - Dr. Helena Hansen, UCLAEpisode 15: The Role of Race in Addiction - Dr. Helena Hansen, UCLA
Trapped: Understanding Addiction
Dr. Helena Hansen explores the role of race in addiction and drug policy, advocating for culturally responsive treatments.
41:16•24 Feb 2022
Race and Addiction: Insights from Dr. Helena Hansen
“Sadly, there's special urgency to addressing the needs of black and Native Americans, and that would require not only making prescribers and health coverage available, but also providing care in a way that is much more accessible and trustworthy to them.”
Ever thought about how race influences addiction and drug policy? In this episode of 'Trapped: Understanding Addiction', Dr. Helena Hansen, a psychiatrist and anthropologist at UCLA, dives into these critical issues. Dr. Hansen sheds light on her journey into this field, starting as a research assistant exploring new treatments for opioid addiction. She discusses the stark realities of unequal drug criminalization and mass incarceration that disproportionately impact communities of color.
You'll hear about the contrasting media portrayals and treatment of substance use disorders across different racial groups. Dr. Hansen passionately argues for comprehensive, culturally responsive addiction treatments, emphasizing the need for multimodal approaches and community-based services. She also touches on the therapeutic benefits of gardening therapy, offering a unique perspective on holistic recovery methods. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of race and addiction, and the importance of equity in treatment.

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